17.02.2026 21:00
A receipt recorded at a business in Istanbul sparked a huge reaction on social media. The customer was charged 90 TL for an extra squeeze of lemon added to their drink. While the rising cost of living and price increases in restaurants are being discussed, this situation has led to comments of 'price gouging.'
As the cost of living and price increases in restaurants continue to be discussed, a receipt shared from a venue in Istanbul has brought the debate to a new level. The details on the bill recorded on Valentine's Day, February 14, revealed the extent of the "extra" service charges.
LEMON'S "EXTRA" BURNS A HOLE IN THE POCKET
The most striking item on the shared receipt was the requested amount of 90.00 TL for "Extra Squeezed Lemon." Considering the market and bazaar price of a single lemon, this figure requested for just a small amount of lemon juice has led to comments of "exploitation."
SODA 512 TL, TABLE FEE 1,400 TL!
It was noted that not only the lemon juice but also other items on the bill were quite high.
In the venue where 512.00 TL was requested for a single soda, the cost of sitting at the table was exactly 1,400.00 TL.
With the addition of the two-person cover charge, it was documented that a customer who only drank soda paid 2,002.00 TL. That customer reacted by sharing the receipt.
"CAN SUCH A THING HAPPEN?"
Social media users reacted, especially to the 90 TL charged for lemon juice, with comments like "Was the lemon dipped in gold water?" and "A glass of water for the price of a sack of lemons." Consumer associations are urging citizens to be cautious against such exorbitant "extra" charges and to exercise their right to complain.